However, it remains to be seen if ethanol-powered cars will be included in the new FAME III rules
The third iteration of the FAME scheme is currently under development.
Government sources suggest that the new scheme may include alternative fuel cars.
Hydrogen-fueled vehicles are expected to be included, and there is a possibility of ethanol-powered cars being included as well.
The new FAME III scheme could also increase subsidies for electric cars.
Currently, the Toyota Mirai and Hyundai Nexo are the only hydrogen-powered fuel cell vehicles linked to India.
The Indian government is working on the development of the FAME (Faster Adoption And Manufacturing Of Hybrids And Electric Vehicles) III scheme. Recent reports suggest that alternative fuel options like hydrogen could be included in the scheme.
The current FAME II scheme is limited to hybrids and electric vehicles, with a focus on electric vehicles. However, the inclusion of hydrogen cars in the scheme could encourage manufacturers to accelerate their efforts in this technology. Toyota is currently testing the Mirai, a hydrogen-powered fuel-cell vehicle, in India, which could be one of the earliest hydrogen cars in the market.
Another alternative fuel that could enter the mass market before hydrogen is ethanol. Maruti is currently testing a flex-fuel version of the Wagon R, which runs on an 85 percent ethanol blend. The carmaker has already confirmed the launch of a new compact flex-fuel vehicle by 2025.
Hydrogen Cars for India?
Currently, only Toyota and Hyundai are rumored to enter the hydrogen car market in India. Nitin Gadkari, the Indian Minister for Road Transport and Highways, drives a Toyota Mirai fuel cell vehicle. Hyundai has also expressed interest in bringing its Nexo FCEV to India.
The current scheme, although comprehensive, does not address various electric car models. The initial subsidy for electric cars was capped at 20% of the vehicle cost or Rs 15,000 per kWh, whichever is lower. It is expected that the subsidy amount and the cap will be increased to make electric vehicles more appealing as the first car for a wider range of consumers.
The Toyota 86 is a highly regarded sports car that offers impressive performance at an affordable price. However, there have been some quality issues with the vehicle, including problems with engine oil pressure during track use. If you own an older 86 and are concerned about the condition of your engine, Toyota has launched a new program that will address these issues by overhauling certain components of the engine as well as other parts.
The 86 Refresh Service is a campaign specifically for the Japanese market. It allows owners of first-generation Toyota 86 models to have their engines overhauled to ensure factory-quality performance. This service will be available at select GR Garage stores in Tokyo, Osaka, Aichi, and Shizuoka, and there are plans to expand to more cities and dealerships in the future. The program is open to vehicles produced between 2012 and 2016, regardless of whether they were purchased new or used.
It’s a rare sight to see a car manufacturer’s upcoming vehicles driving around without any camouflage. However, Ford seems to be bucking the trend lately. Today, we have more spy photos revealing the fully exposed exterior of the 2024 Explorer, and when we say fully exposed, we mean it! Not only do we get a glimpse of the SUV’s mid-cycle refresh, but we also catch a new Explorer trim level in action. Introducing the Explorer Active.
How do we know it’s the Explorer Active? Well, there is a prominent chrome “Active” badge clearly visible on the liftgate. It seems that Ford is not trying to keep any secrets at this point. If the trim hierarchy follows that of the smaller Ford Escape, the Active variant will likely be positioned between the Base and XLT as a lower-spec version in the Explorer lineup.
We admire manual transmissions and will definitely miss them in the electric era. However, we cannot deny that automatic gearboxes have certain advantages. And we’re not just talking about everyday comfort. In the performance segment, cars with automatic gearboxes are usually faster on tracks because of their faster gear changes. Nevertheless, a skilled and experienced driver can still perform miracles even with a stick shift. And this new video proves that.
In this video, we have a Porsche 911 GT3 from the 991.2 generation, driven by an experienced driver, lapping the Nurburgring. According to the owner of the car, the driver has completed between 300 and 400 laps at the legendary track. He admits that there is still room for improvement over a two-day event, with progress made from the first lap to the last.
Let’s start with some background about the car. The 911 GT3 from the 991.2 generation is the facelifted version of the 991.1. It brought back the option for a manual transmission. The 4.0-liter engine under the hood received many hardware upgrades, resulting in a boost in power to 493 horsepower (368 kilowatts) and 339 pound-feet (460 Newton-meters) of torque. The factory performance numbers showed that cars equipped with a six-speed manual gearbox could accelerate from 0 to 60 miles per hour (0-97 kilometers per hour) in 3.8 seconds. The dual-clutch automatic, on the other hand, was quicker at 3.2 seconds.
Toyota is well-known for its reliability, but it is also responsible for producing some iconic sports cars over the years. From the Celica and 86 to the Supra, Toyota has a rich sports car heritage that continues to this day.
While many sports cars sacrifice practicality for performance, Toyota has managed to create models that can be daily-driven without compromising on excitement. These 10 Toyota sports cars are not only dependable, but also great options for everyday driving.
Some of these models are even practical enough to be your only vehicle. Others may not be suitable for a full family, but they are still usable for your daily commutes and can turn boring drives into thrilling experiences. And of course, you can always count on Toyota’s reputation for reliability with these sports cars.
Red 2023 Toyota GR Corolla front 3/4 view parked at the racetrack
The GR Corolla is the first global Toyota model with rally genes. The Corolla chassis has been heavily reworked for better structural rigidity and to accommodate for Gazoo Racing’s all-wheel-drive system. The GR Corolla boasts the most powerful inline-three engine produced for road use. Despite the sports car performance, the GR Corolla retains a full interior with all amenities and a decent cargo capacity of 17.8 cubic feet.
9 Toyota GR86
0-60 mph: 6.2 seconds
Drive Time Productions LLC
A front 3/4 shot of a 2023 Toyota GR86
The GR86 is the spiritual successor to the AE86. It features a compact and lightweight design, making it a true driver’s car. The GR86 comes with modern driver assists, but you can still turn most of them off for a more engaging driving experience. It also has usable back seats, a decent trunk space, and a firm but comfortable ride quality.
8 Toyota GR Supra
0-60 mph: 4.2-3.9 seconds
Toyota
A front 3/4 profile shot of 2023 Toyota GR Supra
The GR Supra, despite sharing a platform with the BMW Z4, has proven itself as a capable sports car. It comes with a powerful straight-six engine that offers more performance than its official figures suggest. The GR Supra is not just about speed, it also offers a comfortable ride and sufficient cargo space.
7 Toyota GR Yaris
0-60 mph: 4.6 seconds
Toyota
Front 3/4 view of red Toyota GR Yaris parked.
The GR Yaris is a rally-bred hot hatchback that offers impressive performance. Despite its small size, it provides great traction and power thanks to its turbocharged engine and all-wheel-drive system. The GR Yaris also has a full interior, foldable rear seats, and a decent amount of cargo space.
6 Toyota Corolla AE86
0-60 mph: 7.9 seconds
Bring A Trailer
A parked 1994 Toyota Celica GT-Four
The Corolla AE86 is known for its sporty nature and has gained a cult following. Its rear-wheel-drive configuration, lightweight chassis, and rev-happy engine make it a joy to drive. The Corolla AE86 is also practical with usable rear seats, a hatchback tailgate, and decent cargo space.
5 Toyota Celica GT-Four
0-60 mph: 5.8 seconds
Bring a Trailer
Front and side view of a 1994 Toyota Celica GT-Four
The Celica GT-Four is a rally-bred Toyota that offers great performance and traction thanks to its turbocharged engine and all-wheel-drive system. It also has usable rear seats, a foldable rear seat, and a decent trunk space.
4 Toyota Supra
0-60 mph: 4.9 seconds
Toyota
Front/side shot of a red 1996 Toyota Supra
The Supra is an iconic sports car that offers impressive performance. Its powerful inline-six engine provides excellent power and it also has a decent-sized trunk. The Supra is a comfortable GT car that is suitable for daily driving.
3 Toyota Celica GT-S
0-60 mph: 6.9 seconds
Toyota
2004 Toyota Celica GT-S sliding on the highway
The Celica GT-S is a performance-focused version of the Celica that offers good power and handling. It is comfortable enough for daily driving and has foldable rear seats for additional storage space. The Celica GT-S is a great all-around sports car.
2 Toyota MR-2
0-60 mph: 6.1 seconds
GreenGhost74 / WikiMedia Commons
A side-view shot of a white 1993 Toyota MR2 Hardtop
The MR-2 is a compact, mid-engine sports car that offers great handling and balance. It is known for its nimble and engaging driving experience. The MR-2 has a decent-sized frunk and a comfortable interior, making it a practical choice for daily driving.
1 Toyota Soarer
0-60 mph: 5.5 seconds
Bring A Trailer
A side-view shot of a 1991 Toyota Soarer GT
The Toyota Soarer, also known as the Lexus SC, is a luxury grand tourer. It offers a comfortable ride and comes with a choice of powerful engines, including the famous 1JZ-GTE. The Soarer is a practical sports car with a spacious interior and decent cargo space.
The 2024 Rolls-Royce Spectre is the luxury carmaker’s first electric vehicle, designed to provide an unparalleled silent driving experience. Rolls-Royce has always been known for creating vehicles that offer the utmost comfort, quietness, and opulence. However, even with extensive sound deadening, internal combustion engines still produce some noise. The Spectre aims to achieve true silence by eliminating the internal combustion engine and introducing electric motors and batteries.
To create a truly silent driving experience, the Spectre features over 375 pounds of sound deadening material and a 1,543-pound battery pack that dampens road noise and imperfections. Whether driving on smooth roads or rough asphalt, the Spectre’s isolation is remarkable. It offers complete seclusion from the outside world, setting a new benchmark for luxury.
The Spectre is powered by two separately excited synchronous motors, one in each axle, making it an all-wheel-drive vehicle. The combined output of these motors is 584 horsepower and 664 pound-feet of torque, with most of the power directed to the rear wheels. It reaches 60 mph in 4.4 seconds, offering impressive acceleration. However, the Spectre is more focused on smoothness and tranquility, prioritizing a seamless driving experience over aggressive performance.
The Spectre’s weight is a notable factor, with a curb weight of 6,371 pounds due to its heavy battery pack. To counterbalance this weight gain, Rolls-Royce has distributed the battery evenly throughout the car’s floor, ensuring a low center of gravity. The Spectre’s suspension system and chassis further enhance its comfort by providing a smooth and gliding ride, thanks to its active air suspension, active anti-roll bars, and sensors that constantly adjust to the road conditions.
One of the Spectre’s highlights is its remarkable silence. The electric powertrain eliminates most external noise, allowing for an incredibly quiet cabin. Even on rough roads, only minimal road noise can be heard. Rolls-Royce’s extensive sound deadening efforts combined with the active air suspension system contribute to the Spectre’s exceptional isolation.
The Spectre’s range is estimated to be around 260 miles according to EPA estimates. While this figure may seem lower compared to other electric vehicles on the market, Rolls-Royce found that most owners only travel around 30 miles per day. Charging habits also revealed that owners preferred to charge at home or in the office, reducing reliance on public charging infrastructure.
The interior of the Spectre is characterized by luxurious details and spaciousness. It features large doors, starlight doors that illuminate the lower section of the interior with thousands of stars, and a digital instrument cluster that can be customized to reflect the car’s configuration. The rear seats offer ample head and legroom, making it a comfortable four-seater with a focus on driver experience.
The base price for the Spectre is $420,000, making it a truly high-end luxury vehicle. The first two years of production are already sold out, with delivery times estimated to be in 2025. As Rolls-Royce plans to transition to fully electric vehicles by 2030, the Spectre represents the brand’s first step towards that goal.
In conclusion, the 2024 Rolls-Royce Spectre redefines the luxury car segment with its silent and potent electric powertrain, outstanding comfort, and attention to detail. It sets a new benchmark for luxury and showcases Rolls-Royce’s commitment to providing the ultimate driving experience.
The Toyota Corolla has always been a dependable car around the world. However, despite its pragmatism, it has had limited options when it comes to buying a car over the years. That has changed with the 2023 Corolla Hybrid. In a move away from tradition, the vehicle now offers a relatively aggressive design along with its usual reliability. The 2023 Corolla Hybrid is a great option for buyers looking for an efficient vehicle at an affordable price. While it still maintains Toyota’s known reliability, the model offers some great features. An efficient powertrain, solid fuel efficiency, and an optional all-wheel drive are just some of the things that make the Toyota Corolla Hybrid arguably the best value-for-money vehicle of 2023.
The 2023 Corolla Hybrid Is Available In Multiple Trims
Toyota
2023 Toyota Corolla Hybrid Infrared front fascia
While Toyota has been a reliable option for years, it hasn’t offered much variety. However, the company has added multiple options to its hybrid lineup this year. You can choose the base variant, the LE Hybrid trim, starting at $23,050, and enjoy a range of standard features. These include wireless Apple CarPlay, automatic climate control, and adaptive cruise control. At the midrange, the SE trim is offered at $25,240 and gives buyers features like keyless entry and bolder front seats. Topping the lineup is the XLE trim, priced at $26,850, which comes with features like heated front seats, blind-spot monitoring, and a moonroof.
2023 Toyota Corolla Pricing
Trim
MSRP
Corolla LE
$21,700
Corolla Hybrid LE
$23,050
Corolla SE
$24,140
Corolla Hybrid SE
$25,490
Corolla SE Infrared
$26,025
Corolla XSE
$26,850
Corolla Hybrid XLE
$26,850
An exciting option that Toyota has added is the electronic all-wheel-drive (AWD) drivetrain for LE and SE hybrid variants. This translates to better control of the car in slippery conditions. The AWD system also improves grip and gives drivers more traction on the road. In addition to the base features, all models come with customized packages for an extra cost of around $1,000. With plenty of options to choose from, the 2023 Corolla Hybrid offers a lower cost compared to competitors like the Hyundai Elantra and the Toyota Prius. These options come with plenty of features and exciting new additions that make this car a worthwhile investment.
The Corolla Hybrid Gets A Power Boost To Go With The New Style
Toyota
A rear three-quarter shot of a 2023 Toyota Corolla Hybrid in action.
For most car enthusiasts, the Toyota Corollas of the past were a stable but dull choice. However, the newest Corolla Hybrid challenges that notion. Even though the overall styling remains focused on practicality, there’s a distinct flair about the 2023 models. The updated front and rear designs feature a fresh grille with headlights that give the car a sleeker look. LED headlights, daytime running lights, and a wider rear fascia complete the modern exterior look. On the inside, the piano black fabric meshes well with the sprinkling of red. There’s also an updated infotainment system with an 8.0-inch touchscreen, making the dashboard more presentable than ever. While the interior design still lags behind some competitors, the changes under the hood make this car an even better choice.
Toyota Corolla Hybrid Engine Specs
Engine Type
1.8 Liter, four-cylinder with an electric motor
Horsepower
134 hp
Torque
156 lb-ft
Drive
FWD or AWD
Every Corolla Hybrid is equipped with a 1.8-liter, Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder engine and a compact, synchronous motor on the front axle. The all-wheel-drive option adds a second motor to the rear end, providing an output increase to 134 horsepower and 156 lb-ft. of torque. The engine boost enhances stability and control when coasting downhill. The Corolla Hybrid also offers top-notch safety features and a comfortable driving experience.
The Toyota Corolla Hybrid Offers Remarkable Safety Features
Toyota
2023 Toyota Corolla Hybrid Infrared side view
Toyota’s latest active safety technology, Safety Sense 3.0, is standard across its hybrid lineup. Features like adaptive cruise control and automatic emergency braking come standard with the latest Corolla Hybrid. The Proactive Driving Assist (PDA) uses the vehicle’s camera and radars to provide gentle braking around curves and steering support to maintain distance from other vehicles. The Corolla Hybrid has received a 5-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, with high scores in frontal and side crash tests and a good rating for rollover resistance.
Safety Ratings
Overall Frontal
5/5
Overall Side
5/5
Rollover
4/5
Recalls: 0
NHTSA Investigations: 0
Awards: IIHS Top Safety Pick
The Corolla Hybrid offers a well-integrated hybrid powertrain, providing excellent fuel efficiency and a comfortable driving experience. The vehicle’s robust safety features, solid build quality, and fuel economy make it an appealing option, especially when compared with vehicles in the same price segment.
The Corolla Hybrid Is Efficient And Affordable
Toyota
Front three-quarters shot of a white 2022 Toyota Corolla Hybrid
The Corolla Hybrid offers significant advantages in terms of fuel economy. The most efficient variant can go up to 53 miles per gallon in the city and 46 mpg on the highway, with a combined rating of 50 mpg. Even the all-wheel-drive version offers a solid 47 mpg in the city, 41 mpg on the highway, and 44 mpg combined. With an average range of about 570 miles, you can drive the Corolla Hybrid without worrying too much about fuel stops. Compared to higher-priced options, like the Toyota Prius, the Corolla Hybrid provides excellent fuel economy and the stability of all-wheel drive. It is one of the most efficient four-door sedans of 2023. Considering its robust safety features, solid build quality, power, and fuel economy, the 2023 Toyota Corolla Hybrid is an appealing option in its price range.
Although “Nuclear Blaze” is not a new game, it was originally released on PC in 2021. However, it recently became available on Nintendo Switch and PlayStation 4 in April 2023, making it the first time it’s playable on consoles. Developed by Deepnight Games, this 2D action-adventure game puts players in the role of a lone firefighter who investigates a series of fires at a secret military base. The gameplay involves using a hose to extinguish fires and navigating through the base in a side-scrolling Metroidvania style, avoiding potential threats along the way.
A crucial element in “Nuclear Blaze” is managing the expanding flames. If the fire gets out of control, it becomes nearly impossible to progress through the level. Additionally, players must carefully manage their water supply, which can only be replenished at specific points. This creates a dilemma where every move must be considered for safety.
The standout aspect of “Nuclear Blaze” is its captivating story. As players advance in the game, they slowly uncover the nature of the military base and the origin of the fire. Rescuing survivors and finding notes reveal the truth of what occurred. With a relatively short playtime, an excellent soundtrack, and various difficulty options, “Nuclear Blaze” offers an enjoyable gaming experience for players of all ages.
At first glance, the idea of witnessing old vehicles being crushed may not sound like entertainment. However, there is something oddly satisfying and even soothing about it, like popping bubble wrap. This video features a Buick Invicta, Ford Tempo, and F-150 meeting their fate with a crusher.
Yet, a part of us also wants to shout, “Noooooo!” There’s a sense of dread before the metal starts popping and crunching. It’s like watching a horror movie, anticipating the gruesome demise of those teenagers or the heartbreak of saying goodbye to a beloved pet.
The first vehicle to be crushed is a 1980s Ford F-150, a workhorse with a long bed that has seen better days. It has a bent rear fender, as if it collided with a tree, and the frame is likely damaged. The roof and front fender are also banged up. While older Ford trucks have become collectible, this one is beyond saving and meets its end in the crusher.
Next is an early 90s Dodge Caravan or Plymouth Voyager. The only standout feature of this van is the graphics on its side, which would be admired by Radwood enthusiasts. However, rust has taken its toll on the underside, and the presence of a space-saver spare tire on the front axle suggests financial struggles. It too meets its demise.
The most intriguing vehicle is a 1959 Buick Invicta four-door hardtop. This mid-range model from Buick’s lineup in the early 1960s boasted Space Age styling reminiscent of the Jetsons. However, it is not as sought after by collectors as the coupe, convertible, or Estate station wagon. Like the other vehicles, it is in such a deteriorated state that saving it is not feasible unless it held exceptional value like a Chevy Chevelle SS454 or Shelby GT500.
Last but not least is a 1990s Ford Tempo, a vehicle largely forgotten today but once a common sight on US roads. It was often a first car for many teen drivers, offering economical performance, albeit uninspiring. Some models even had a sunroof and manual transmission. In this video, the Tempo sedan is stacked on top of the Invicta and meets the same fate.
At the end of the process, all that remains is a pile of compressed metal, no taller than the crushed vehicles themselves. While we don’t know where these scrapped cars will ultimately end up, it would be fitting if they were recycled into new appliances—symbolic of their previous lives before meeting their demise.
The Toyota Hilux has a reputation for impressive durability. However, the brand never used that moniker in the United States for its truck. It was simply the Toyota Pickup there until the Tacma arrived. This one from 1980 has racked up a million miles, despite lots of off-road abuse like competing in rallies.
Things didn’t start well for this Pickup. Just two weeks after taking delivery in 1980, the owner crashed into an MG Midget. He repaired the truck and also added a roll cage to the cab, which voided the warranty.
The body has a beautiful patina. There are bits of rust, and the paint is flaking off to expose the previous colors underneath. A piece of tubular metal replaces the rear bumper.
The interior looks far worse. Only the necessary items are left. There is no headliner or carpets. Holes in the floor pan let you see through the driver-side footwell. The door panels are gone, too. There’s also exposed wiring. The original Toyota CB radio on the center stack is a neat touch.
Under the hood, the original 20R 2.2-liter four-cylinder engine is gone, and the 22R 2.4-liter four-cylinder replaces it. The owner kept the stock powerplant for around 400,000 miles but upgraded to the larger one for more power. A five-speed manual replaced the four-speed at the same time.
The owner wasn’t afraid to abuse his Pickup. In addition to competing in rallies, he also did jumps with it. Over the years, the springs, shocks, hubs, and other suspension pieces have also required replacement.
According to the owner, this truck lasted so long because it was easy to fix. So when something inevitably breaks, he can repair the problem.
There are many stories about high-running Toyotas. For example, we previously wrote about the owner of a 2008 Tacoma with over 1.52 million miles. It had an engine swap at 880,000 miles and needed a torque converter at 1.3 million miles. The owner drove about 500 miles a day delivering the nuclear medicine necessary for PET scans.
Toyota recently launched the 2024 Tacoma as the latest in the long line going back to the Pickup in the United States. We look forward to seeing whether the new one turns out to be as durable as previous iterations. The standard powertrain is now a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder that produces 228 horsepower and 243 pound-feet of torque or 270 hp and 310 lb-ft in some trims. The I-Force Max variant is a hybrid-assisted version making 326 hp and 465 lb-ft.
Take a tour of the 2024 Tacoma:
Unlock Your Automotive Passion and Explore the Road Ahead
